Here is the honest truth: You cannot buy a new license for Pixellu SmartAlbums 2.1.13 anymore. Pixellu no longer sells v2 licenses directly. However, you may find:
If you already own v2.1.13, keep using it. If not, your best legal option is to subscribe to SmartAlbums X or buy a used license from someone who has upgraded.
Warning: Avoid cracked versions. They often contain malware, lack lab updates, and may corrupt your album exports.
Unlike entry-level album tools, SmartAlbums 2.1.13 allows:
This gives a bespoke, high-end album feel without leaving the software. pixellu smartalbums 2 1 13
1. Importing Images
2. The Grid & Templates SmartAlbums uses a strict grid system. It automatically calculates the spacing (gutters) based on the lab’s requirements.
3. Placing & Editing Photos
4. Timeline (Bottom Bar)
No software is perfect. Here are common quirks in this release and how to solve them:
Issue 1: Crashes when importing more than 500 images at once.
Fix: Batch your import into two groups of 250 images.
Issue 2: Face detection fails on strongly backlit portraits.
Workaround: Manually rotate or reposition photos on the spread.
Issue 3: Export to PDF generates large file sizes (over 150 MB).
Solution: Use the "JPEG High" compression preset instead of "Lossless." Here is the honest truth: You cannot buy
Issue 4: Cannot install on macOS Ventura or Sonoma.
Workaround: No fix – Pixellu removed 32-bit dependencies. You must run on a High Sierra/Catalina virtual machine or upgrade.
Pixellu stopped providing official support for v2.1.13 in early 2021, but their knowledge base articles remain accessible for legacy users.
| Feature | SmartAlbums 2.1.13 | Fundy v6 (current) | InDesign CC | |--------|-------------------|--------------------|--------------| | Auto-layout | ✅ Excellent | ✅ Superior (AI) | ❌ None | | Lab integration | ✅ Many labs | ✅ Many labs | ❌ Manual | | Learning curve | Low | Medium | High | | Price model | Perpetual (~$149) | Subscription ($29/mo) | Subscription ($22/mo) | | M1 Native | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
Verdict: For casual album makers, modern Fundy has more AI smarts. For pros on a budget with older hardware, 2.1.13 remains a winner. If you already own v2
Before importing photos, you must define the physical parameters of your album.
Specifications:
